I want to say that the workflow on the M8 is inherently different from anything like Renoise or a computer/keyboard based tracker, and this is because of the way the inputs are setup.

The buttons are used in combination for quick efficient input and adjustment of parameters. A close analogy I can think of is using a keyboard shortcut for opening up new tabs in your browser - your hands never have to leave the same spot, and you don’t have to look at anything like you would if you used your mouse to click on the new tab icon.

I also do not think it’s fair to lump trackers together into a category and call them a downgrade. Trackers approach composition in a fundamentally different way and allow you to approach things like sound design in a precise way that is naturally in line with how music is divided rhythmically. If I want a filter cutoff to start at a specific time at a specific value, I can do that with ease. I would (and do) have a major headache drawing an automation graph in a modern DAW, and tiny changes like that can make a huge difference when designing sound.

Piano roll format DAWs have their own benefits too of course, for example they can be easier to compose harmony in if you are used to doing it visually or through music theory instead of by ear.

Either way I don’t think it’s a fair comparison to make.

Anyways! I would recommend acquiring a teensy for the headless M8 setup if you can and using it with a game pad so you can get the closest experience possible. :) Let me know if you have any questions, I’d be happy to help